WVUPros Summer Preview: Geno Smith

Ending our WVUPros Summer Previews is New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith. Making the most headlines out of any WVU player, Smith is locked in to a position battle with Michael Vick. It seems as if Smith will be the starter in 2014, but the battle is alive and well.

2013 Season Recap: Smith completed 247-of-443 passes during his rookie season for 3,046 yards and 12 touchdowns with 21 interceptions. While his touchdown/interception ratio was anywhere near spectacular, Smith led the Jets to an 8-8 season, a hard task when you look at the offensive weapons at his disposal. His best game was arguably his Monday Night Football performance against the Atlanta Falcons, a 30-28 victory for the Jets. Smith completed 16-of-20 passes for 199 yards and three touchdowns and zero interceptions. Smith also won three of his last games of the season.

Contract: A second-round selection, Smith signed a four-year $5.019 million deal, including a $2,030,620 signing bonus. He’s set to make $633,164 in 2014 and will be a free agent in 2017.

Summer OTA Outlook: Smith and Vick have been in a QB battle since before OTAs even began. Rex Ryan has said that Smith will be hard to beat but that the battle is open. Vick, though, has been adamant to the fact that Smith will be the starter. Smith will be using his time this summer working with the first team, throwing to players like Eric Decker and Stephen Hill, while getting used to draft pick Jace Amaro, who could play tight end or receiver.

2014 Season Outlook: If the starter in Week 1, Smith will likely have a short leash with Vick looming. But with a few new weapons, Decker and running back Chris Johnson, he should have a better season. With more options and a year in the NFL under his belt, Smith and the Jets will look to succeed with their win-now mentality.

Matt is a staff writer for WVU Pros. He's spent time covering current WVU sports as well as keeping up with all forms of professionals from WVU out in the world. He's also the sports editor for the Times West Virginian in Fairmont, WV. You can follow him on Twitter @MattWelch_TWV.

Get WVUPros Delivered to your Inbox

Enter your email address to subscribe.

Email Address

Contact Us:

We strive to bring you the latest and most up-to-date news about your favorite former Mountaineers and a mix of current WVU athletics.
If you have any questions, requests or tips, email WVUPros@Gmail.com.